Smolikas is the second highest mountain in Greece (2,635 m), second only to Mt. Olympus (2,918 m), where the gods used to live according to the Ancient Greeks.
Smolikas Mountain is located in the Ioannina regional unit, northwestern Greece and it is it is the highest of the Greek mountain Range of Pindus.
There are seven popular trails in Smolikas, but we hiked the one starting from Smolikas refuge near Pades village.
This is a beautiful trail that passes through a forest of black pine trees and reaches Drakolimni (Dragon) Lake at 2,160 m. You will be walking mostly in the alpine zone, and then you will have to climb a rather steep 2 km.
Both on the way and from the top, the trail offers magnificent views of other mountains, mainly the Tymphi mountain range.
You will also see to the southwest and Grammos, the fourth highest mountain in Greece, at 2,520 m to the northwest, that is if the sky is clear.
The Planet Greece is an Amazon Associate and participant in other affiliate programs. I earn from qualifying purchases. Please see my disclaimer/privacy policy for more information.
Our Latest Video on Hiking in Greece
Post Information
In this post, you will find information on a hike starting at the parking space of the Smolikas Refuge (near Pades village) and reaching the top of the mountain.
Find out how to get to Smolikas, where is best to stay in the area, and what other exciting trails are nearby (such as Vikos Gorge).
Why Hike Smolikas Mountain Peak?
Would you like to hike an off-the-beaten-path trail in Greece but you are not sure if this is the right one for you? This is a great trail for every experienced hiker for the following reasons:
Stunning Natural Beauty: As you hike, you will love the pristine alpine meadows, lush forests, scenic mountain lake, and the rugged peaks of the Pindus range.
The diversity of flora and fauna in this region is a visual treat and a stark contrast to many other hiking destinations in North America and Europe.
Cultural and Historical Significance: Hiking the Smolikas trails allows you to explore traditional villages and unique churches like Agia Paraskevi, or as the locals call it, the Pisa of Greece. Agia Paraskevi is the only leaning Greek monument.
Challenging and Rewarding Hike: You will appreciate the physical challenge of ascending to the peak, which requires you to have a very good physical condition.
Escape from the Crowds: Unlike some well-known hiking destinations in the United States or Europe that can become crowded during peak seasons, Smolikas Peak offers an unspoiled and tranquil environment, a genuine wilderness experience.
Technical information for the Smolikas Peak
- Trail Length: Slightly over 13 km (round trip).
- Elevation: Starts at 1,665 m and reaches 2,635 m.
- Elevation Gain: 1,025 m
- Elevation Loss: 1,025 m.
- Total Time: Approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, including generous breaks.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate, primarily due to a steep, continuous slope near the summit, both on the ascent and descent. Be cautious of the small stones that can make the path somewhat slippery during the descent. In winter, this section may be icy, so the use of crampons is necessary.
- Signposted: Yes
- Terrain: The trail consists mostly of earth paths in the forested section, becoming rockier with small stones and steeper in the alpine zone.
- Best Time to Hike: The end of June through early November is the ideal time, as there is likely to be snow and ice during winter. Since the pine trees are evergreen, the view remains consistent throughout the seasons. The information is based on a hike in mid-September.
- Participation Requirements: This hike is not demanding under good weather conditions. However, it does require good physical condition due to the 1,000 m altitude difference and the steep slope near the summit.
- Gear: Hiking poles will be useful, especially near the top. A fleece jacket may be needed, as the last part can be windy. During the winter, crampons and an ice pick are necessary.
- Water: You will not find any water source on the trail, so take enough water when leaving the refuge.
Hiking Smolikas to the Top
The starting point is at the parking area of the Smolikas Refuge, some 300 m before the refuge itself, at an altitude of around 1.670 m. Once at the refuge, follow the sign that leads to the path, leaving the refuge to your right.
You will find a fountain some 300 m past the refuge. Since there won’t be any other water sources along the trail, make sure to fill up your water bottles before you begin the hike.
The trail leads through a black pine forest until it reaches the alpine zone, at an elevation of approximately 2,150 meters, about 4 kilometers from the trailhead. The dirt path is relatively easy, with a gradual slope and only a few steps.
Around 1,870 meters in altitude, which is about 1.2 kilometers from the trailhead, you’ll arrive at the first saddle, where you may begin to catch a glimpse of the Smolikas peak.
From that point onward, you will start having a nice view of the Tymphi mountain range to the SW.
At 4.5 km from the trailhead, at an altitude of 2.160 meters, you will reach a mountain lake known as Dragon Lake.
In the winter, the entire landscape is frozen and hard to access, but in the spring, it turns green and fills with beautiful flowers that add a unique charm to the shores of Dragon Lake.
Among them, wild orchids take the spotlight, but you will also see lilies, wild gladioli, and saxifrages. In its waters live (protected) Alpine tritons (Triturus alpestris), 10-12cm long lizards that can both swim and walk on land.
After passing the lake, the path becomes steeper and more rocky, which can make it slippery. Exercise caution, especially on the return journey.
The path is marked by poles and, from time to time, you’ll also see marks painted on the rocks to guide you.
I suggest following the recorded trail in reverse on the way back, as it is better selected than the path taken on the ascent.
Once you reach the summit, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking 360-degree view.
There, you’ll also discover a book where you can record your name, the date of your visit, and any impressions you’d like to share. Sometimes, the previous hikers leave energy bars for the next group of hikers.
Here is the Wikiloc record named “Smolikas”.
Where to Stay for Smolikas Peak
If you wish to stay at the Smolikas refuge, I suggest you make reservations in advance. You can contact them at +30 698 983 7704. The refuge features a pleasant restaurant that offers a diverse range of meals. Additionally, it provides camping lots in the surrounding area.
An alternative lodging option can be found in the village of Pades, where a pension offers a limited number of rooms.
If you prefer a more lively village, then you should stay at the Hotel Rodovoli (mid-range, family-friendly) in Konitsa, 15 km southwest of Smolikas.
How to Get to Smolikas
You can go to Smolikas only by a rental car. The public buses will reach some of the villages, but from there you will need a private car. So, I suggest you get your car to explore one of the most beautiful areas of western Greece.
From Athens (505 km): The trip lasts 6 hours to reach the Smolikas refuge via the Rio Antirio Bridge in the Peloponnese.
If you drive via Lamia, the journey will take nearly an hour longer, despite the same distance. However, if you choose to go via Lamia town, you can stop at Meteora Monasteries on your way to Smolikas.
Smolikas is 228 Km west of Thessaloniki and via Egnatia Odos (new highway) you will get there in 3 hours.
Best Things to Do near Smolikas
- Hike the other 6 trails that start from beautiful mountainous villages: Palioselli, Armata, Samarina, Profitis Ilias, Agia Paraskevi, and Pournia.
- Go to Vasilitsa Ski Resort, with 24 slopes for all levels of ski experience. Discover the 19 Ski resorts in Greece here.
- Explore Samarina, the highest village in Greece, with impressive architecture and historical houses.
- Go Rafting to Voidomatis River in Zagori
- Explore and hike beautiful Valia Calda in the Pindus range.
- Travel for an hour and a half southwest to the spectacular Vikos Gorge.
What are the Top 6 Most Popular Hikes in Greece?
- Mount Olympus
- Vikos Gorge
- Menalon Trail
- Pelion Mount
- Samaria Gorge
- Parnassus
Final Thoughts
Hiking Smolikas Mountain in Greece is a captivating experience, offering both challenge and beauty.
The second-highest peak in Greece treats adventurers to stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and a sense of accomplishment at the summit. It’s a must for those seeking a rewarding trek in the heart of Greece’s natural wonders.
Essential Greece Traveling Tips
- ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in Greek: “Ya sou” and “Efharisto”
- Emergency Numbers Anywhere in Greece: AMBULANCE 166 – FIRE 199 – POLICE 100– EMERGENCY NUMBER 112
- Athens Metro Website (timetables and ticket info)
- Map of the Athens Metro
- Trains (Hellenic Train)
- Public Buses KTEL
- Booking.com: I use Booking.com because I can get the best deals on hotels and apartments, free cancellations, and great prices!
- FerryScanner to book ferries to the Greek Islands
- Rent an Affordable Car in Greece
- Get Your Guide: For all your day or multi-day tours and city guide needs, I use Get Your Guide
